Speed was evident during the Penticton Vees spring camp. Hitting too as a few players got rattled.
After three days of camp, Vees coach-GM Fred Harbinson left with the feeling they had scouted talented players.
“It was probably one of our strongest camps we’ve had since I’ve been here,” said Harbinson. “Out of this, we have a good group of young kids who will go back to their midget teams and junior b teams.”
Not at the camp due to school commitments were Minnesota recruits Jack Ramsay and Max Coatta. Harbinson said both will be at the main camp. Along with returning players, the Vees expect to have just over 40 players fight for roster spots.
During the three days, Harbinson wanted to see players who can skate and compete. It’s the two things the Vees look for.
“Everyone knows that we’re a quick team and always want to be a quick team,” he said. “We want to be a team that competes hard. Those two things have allowed us to get to three finals in the last six years. Win an RBC Cup. We should have another deep team this year.”
There were players who surprised giving the coaching staff hard decisions to make. it’s only a good thing to Harbinson.
“If you don’t have tough decisions, then it means it’s going to be a long winter,” said Harbinson.
In other team news, a new captain is expected to be named shortly. NHL Central Scouting released its final rankings for the 2013 draft. Ranked No. 1 is Seth Jones of the Portland Winterhawks, followed by Halifax Mooseheads forward Nathan McKinnon and Jonathan Drouin. Former Penticton Vees/Vernon Vipers forward Jedd Soleway is ranked 131st among North American skaters. Vees goalie Chad Katunar is ranked 28th among North American goalies.